Dilip Kumar

Dilip Kumar was one of the most beloved figures in Indian cinema, who was credited with pioneering method acting in Bollywood. He debuted as an actor in the film Jwar Bhata (1944), produced by Bombay Talkies. He rose to fame with the 1947 hit Jugnu, and went on to star in more than 65 films over nearly five decades, playing roles that ranged from the iconic to the endearing. He was known for his charismatic screen presence and his impeccable acting that inspired generations of actors. He was also a film producer and a politician, serving as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2000 to 2006. He received numerous awards and honours for his contributions to Indian cinema, including eight Filmfare Awards for Best Actor, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan, and the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, the highest civilian honour of Pakistan. He was married to actress Saira Banu since 1966, and the couple had no children. He died on 7 July 2021 at the age of 98, after a prolonged illness. He was buried with full state honours at Juhu Qabrastan in Mumbai.